Plant Overview
A perennial wallflower with clusters of deeply veined flowers of rose-red to deep pink with other purplish tones. The highly scented flowers are very attractive to pollinating insects.
Handsome deep green leaves nicely set off the profuse long fragrant spikes of flowers.
Called perennial wallflower because they are much longer lived than their traditional bedding-plant cousins. Valuable in spring and early summer, when they are covered in typical wallflower flowers. Trim back after flowering to prevent them becoming woody, and you may be rewarded with a second flush of flowers.
Height: 20 x 30cm
Erysimum are fast growing and happy in any sunny spot, provided the soil isn't boggy. They tolerate very dry soil once they are established.
Myth and Legend
In the 12th century, Troubadours would wear a sprig of wallflower to signify that their love survive time and misfortune. It is said that this is as a result of seeing the plant growing on the ruins of fallen towers, the rather romantic image of beauty and fragrance amonst desolation.
In Palestine, the wallflower is known as the 'blood drops of Christ'. It was introduced to Britain some 300 years ago, although some sources claim that it was originally introduced by the Romans.
Dreaming of wallflowers is said to be a sign to those in love that their sweetheart will be true to them.
Common name(s): Perennial Wallflower, Blister Cress, Hedge Mustard.
